Extremes in Fat loss/Contest Diets What we see in physique competitors and even the general public is when extremes of diet and cardio are used there is a breakdown of not only the physical, but the mental and emotional capacities rather than a strengthening of them.The consequences to such dieting are dire and long term. Not only that, but the consequences extend well beyond the physical and metabolic. The result is not just seen in terms of bodyweight rebounds and food preoccupations, but lead to all areas of negative psychological and social functioning as well. Extreme diets metabolically slow down the body’s physiological processes to a state that isn’t condusive to the end goal. One note is that anytime you diet down for a prolonged period of time metabolic function does slow down some, that’s normal. I am talking about taking that to extremes. The body is an incredible adaptive machine, especially when it comes to lack of energy intake. One way to combat the down regulation of metabolism when dieting is stay in a Relative calorie deficit and combine that with well- timed refeeds and within a short time period of hours it will effect metabolism in a positive way. Those that try to raise calories only slightly in order to still adhere to a diet, do not re-boot metabolism. Although lower bodyweights can be achieved with extreme diet choices it is unlikely to be maintained as a result of. Expert diet advice and practice, complete with an understanding of selectively timed refeeds is the only way to establish and maintain not just weight loss, but fat loss long term. Extreme diet methods is reflective of metabolic issues and psychological catastrophe in both the short and long term consequences of extreme diet approaches. My goal is to educate. For many a little awareness can go a long way for rational people to cease and desist a mentality of extremes when it comes to body image and contest preparation. Such practices, whether they come with expert advice or not are self-defeating strategies to the physical, mental, and emotional well- being of the unaware trainee who is led to believe that suffering is a part of healthy body maintenance. As a coach in my 2nd decade I can tell you that suffering seldom leads to fulfillment. Metabolic issues are real in areas of cosmetic physique display like Figure, bikini, bodybuilding, pageants and even in individuals just looking to lose fat. By all means compete. But embrace the side of you which tells you it should lead to fulfillment and not devastation. There are other experts out there like myself who know the more intelligent routes.
Posted on: Mon, 03 Feb 2014 20:04:10 +0000